*DINOSAUR SCREECH* Sorry it took me so long to update ! This fanfic will not die, I can assure you *shakes fist*
First of all, I'd like to mention that the Owl character, princess Athena, doesn't belong to me, but to NightAngelGirl (can be found here on this website !) ! Thanks for giving me the opportunity to include her in my fanfic ! Her presence actually helps a lot in the plot, especially for the final act xD
Before posting the next chapter I'll have two prologues to post first (yes, remember that I have small short stories going on with this), Hell's childhood and Vera's. At first I wanted to do a comic about Hell, but it would take me a billion years to make it so FAWCK IT.
Also, hurm, sex scene ... it was first way longer than what's written here xDD but I had to erase a lot of things because I rated that fanfic T so, YEAH, gotta keep it that way somehow.
Jarod is going to be the death of me ;_;
He had a hard time recognizing where he was, the trees foreign to him.
Or he wished they were…
Goth started to realize he was back into one of those forsaken northern forests, the wind cold against his fur and the scenery dull and grey, compared to the jungle.
How did he get here? … Or had he dreamed it all? Was he still in the north? He looked around, trying to find Stella, but she was nowhere to be found! Maybe she escaped during his sleep. Oh, may she be cursed, that Silverwing betrayed him!
But then he stopped to a branch and noticed something odd: there was no sound around. It was as if he was completely alone...
Frowning, he turned around, ready to take flight once again, only to face a small bat hanging just before him, a large smile on its face.
''Hi!'' it said in a cheerful female voice.
The prince gagged in fear, taking some steps back as his fur spiked up.
The newcomer started to laugh at his reaction, coming down to the branch the Vampyrum was on. She was a Silverwing, an adult – judging by her height – and had thicker fur.
Goth, angered by such apparition, showed his fangs, snarling: ''Who are you and what's the meaning of this?''
The female showed a warm smile, looking at the giant with eyes the male knew too well...
''It's been some time since I wanted to meet you, Goth, and now here's my chance! … I'm Destiny.''
''Wait... How do you know me? Have we met before?'' asked the cannibal, unsure.
''Oh no!'' answered the one named Destiny. ''But we were supposed to. I had Nocturna's soul before Stella came to life.''
Goth's eyes suddenly grew big, instantly knowing who he was now facing.
''… You're Stella's mother.''
''Aye!'' approved the Silverwing with pride. But her smile soon faded out: ''I wish I could have been it a while longer though. But we weren't meant to live at the same time.''
''How so?''
Destiny unfolded her wings, gesturing Goth to follow her as she went high up, to the top of a tree.
Both bats hanged, soon facing a large scenery, showing the sun slowly starting to rise to the horizon. That view brought nostalgia to the prince, remembering when he saw the sun with Stella, witnessing her reaction to that first view...
''Like I said, I had Nocturna's soul,'' finally answered the female serenely. ''I had discovered it through a dream, never revealing the fact to anyone in my colony. The goddess told me of her plan with Zotz: to bring you north when the time would be right, and how I'd be captured by humans only to get a band and meet you. She told me to never settle down, to never have a family so I could have no ties in my land. … Until I met Amon, Stella's father.''
She blushed a little, thinking about her former mate.
''Oh he was perfect,'' she continued. ''We were both adventurous and bold, wanting to explore every corners of the forest... And then he asked me to be his mate and I accepted without hesitation.''
''Nocturna must've been furious,'' commented Goth.
''Yes. And for that she cursed me. She got Amon as far as she could from me and said that the child I was bearing would soon replace me. She would make her stronger than me, more obediant. At first I was scared, but knew that I couldn't change fate.''
The Vampyrum felt uneasy: ''Do- … do you regret it all?''
Destiny was slightly surprised by his question, but she was quick to gently shake her head.
''Never. I lived a good life and gave birth to a wonderful daughter. She deserves existence, more than I. And when I see you both together, I just know that you two were meant to find eachothers. … I'm grateful that you found her, Goth, that you protect her too. You're giving her something I was never able to: a family.''
''And still, everything turned to be unfair,'' added Goth. ''… I respect the gods. Zotz gave power to my father and also gave me strength, same for anyone in my colony. And still … they toy with us, using us for their petty matters. None of this should have happened.''
A soft smile appeared on the Silverwing's face.
''Do you really think so?'' she asked. ''Do you really wish you would have never met my daughter?''
That question froze the Vampyrum, truly wondering if he really thought that.
His eyes were glued to the sun, as if trying to catch any glimpse of an answer. … But he knew too well that he already had it.
''… No,'' he answered calmly, sighing. ''For once in my life, I am no longer alone. … I may have wished for some things to be different, but never would I want to let her go away. … I could kill for her, I could die even. … I don't know why she brings that feeling to me.''
''Love is a strong weapon!''
Goth looked back at the female, recognizing that saying. Destiny let a soft giggle escape her, winking as she said: ''I met your mother, she's a nice lady.''
Suddenly the sun's light began to fade, darkening the scene. The Vampyrum got his eyes to the bright orb, witnessing it being devoured by a black mass growing bigger and bigger as the seconds passed. He heard the Silverwing sigh.
''… I didn't come only to meet you, Goth, but also to warn you.''
The northern forest became all blurred, colors rapidly moving, as if the bats were travelling at great speed, only to stop for the familiar sight of the jungle. Goth could see the pyramid before him, his home, its colors toned down by the absence of light. A lot of bats were flying around, same for large birds he recognized as Vultures – which surprised him.
''This is a vision,'' continued Destiny, seeing the prince's confusion. ''An eclipse is coming soon over your land and your father will see this as a great opportunity to liberate Cama Zotz out of his hell. But everything will turn for the worst if no one acts in time.''
Goth heard a loud roar rise from the pyramid, freezing his blood. Great flashes of light exploded from the royal chamber. But it didn't last long until something fell on the building, a large explosion of fire destroying most of it.
His heart stopped, his eyes big from both fear and astonishment. The surroundings became pitch black, only leaving the two bats into light. Goth turned to the female, rage suddenly invading him.
He grabbed her by the throath, lifting her way above ground.
''You lie!'' he snarled. ''This is not a vision, this will not happen!''
Destiny wasn't struggling, in no need of air after all since she was already dead.
''Yes Goth, it will, and if you do nothing everyone you know will die,'' she said, calmly.
''How can you be sure, where did you get that information?''
''I can't tell you,'' she added with sorrow. ''You have Zotz's soul. If he gets to know he will chase me in the underworld. … I can't say anything but please believe me, Goth. For Stella's sake, do not overlook this warning.''
The prince released her harshly, growling.
He didn't want to believe that the pyramid would risk destruction. Why were there Vultures flying around at that time? Where did that explosion of fire came from? And that scream... He didn't want to acknowledge it, but it did sound like him...
''What should I do then?'' he asked with small disdain.
Destiny got back up, slighlty rubbing her neck. She looked serious this time.
''Follow Vera, stay with her. She is the key to avoid most of what will happen. She is a protector, you can trust her.''
A protector? Goth was surprised. He wanted to ask more, but the Silverwing's body was already starting to fade out, signaling the end of their conversation.
''Wait!'' let out the prince.
''We won't see eachothers again, Goth, at least not now,'' said the female. ''Do not forget what I showed you. … And please, tell Stella that I love her and that I'm proud of her.''
''But I don't understand. Why is Vera important? Why will the pyramid blow up? Why?''
''Goodbye, prince.''
The Vampyrum suddenly woke up, his eyes opening widely and his fur slightly rising. It took some time for him to get to hear other things than his loud beating heart, deciphering a small voice calling his name.
He looked down, noticing Stella still in his wings, gazing up to him with small confusion.
''Goth, are you alright?'' she asked in a small, tired voice. ''You were mumbling and growling in your sleep...''
The male shook his head rapidly, trying to get his senses back. He noticed that morning was about to come, the sun slowly rising outside. The rain had stopped, only small drops trailing down from times to times against the pyramid's stones.
He sighed shortly: ''Just a bad dream, muchaha, don't worry...''
Stella got closer to him, hugging him as she nuzzled her head against his fur.
''It's alright now, I'll chase it away,'' she added, still tired.
The Vampyrum chuckled softly, leaving a hand in the Silverwing's hair. He stayed silent, wondering if he had to tell her about his meeting with Destiny. … How could he even approach the subject?
He added no other words, simply looking back outside as the young one was starting to fall back asleep.
He wanted things to stay that way, for the sunrise to be eternal and the tranquility of the surroundings to stay. His worries were growing with each passing days, but everytime he looked at the sun, nothing else mattered. He felt glorious in daylight, his blood boiling with pride. Oh how he loved the recomforting presence of the sun and its warm temperatures.
To be the prince of such a grand colony did brought him strength, probably the only thing keeping him alive and making him able to go forward.
And one day he'd rule them all. One day he'd be the glorious sun. And on that day, everything would change...
Jarod knew that what he was about to do was the most disrepectful thing he could ever do to his colony and even his ancestors' spirits.
He knew going to the Vultures for help was the craziest thing to do. … But they were his last resort.
He got to their devasted land, accompanied by two guards. The surroundings were quieter than the other parts of the jungle, the vegetation here less dense and flourishing. Deep down the king was scared, but he brought all his power up only to hide it. The trio stopped to a tree, the view before them being nothing more but dead trees and grey foliage. Jarod turned to the two bats accompanying him: a male and a female. He looked severe: ''I want you two to stay here. Whatever happens, do NOT get out and come to me. Do not try to listen or spy on me; I will read your minds and if you did, I will not hesitate to kill you.''
The two bats gulped, nodding as they watched the king fly away towards the desolated scene.
Jarod only got to a dead tree, looking around when he set foot on a branch. He couldn't see nor hear anyone, bringing him more stress as he deployed some echolocations around. His fur was slowly rising, regretting what he was about to do:
''… I demand to meet Sobek, leader of the Vultures,'' he said in a strong voice. ''I come in peace.''
The Vampyrum soon heard low sounds of large wings flapping into the air, shifting the winds around him. He saw black forms rise, slowly coming to him. A large shadow landed before Jarod, being none other than Sobek. The Vulture had black feathers, some missing at places on his body. One of his golden eyes was white, blinding him on his right side. And his beak was a bit broken on that same side.
He looked strong and old, which could prove to be a problem for Jarod if he ever was to face him.
The Vulture let out a raspy chuckle: ''Peace? … Have you forgotten your specie's history, Vampyrum?''
''Never,'' answered Jarod, trying to stand tall and strong. ''As a king, it is my duty to remember my clan's path.''
Sobek faked to be surprised: ''Oh, king Jarod! Sorry I didn't recognize you earlier; all of you bats look the same.''
''Spare me your uncalled mockery, bird. I came here to deliver a proposition, I am in need of your help.''
''Why would you risk your pitiful self and honor in getting our help?''
Sobek's voice was filled with sarcasm, bringing small laughters from his pairs. Jarod felt his fur poof up a bit.
''The banished are getting help from the rats.''
The vulture got a severe look on his face.
''... You do realise that beasts and birds signed a peace treaty. You don't want to start a new war, bat, none of this matter concerns you.''
''The banished chose their side and I chose mine. I'm doing this for my colony and if it starts a war between your two people, my clan will aid you.''
The bird took a step forward, dangerously lowering his head towards the Vampyrum in hopes of looking more menacing.
''Is that all you have to offer me, bat? Why should I trust you? Your specie killed hundreds of my people in the course of many years only for your self glory. You got your place under the sun and we left you be. … Neither a bird or an animal, you are all a disgrace to this world.''
''I know the gravity of our situation,'' lightly snarled the king, trying to keep his calm. ''And I wouldn't come to you in any circumstances, but now things are getting out of hands.''
''That's what Tlacelel said when he came to us,'' added Sobek with slight disgust.
Jarod growled at the mention of the ancient banished's name, but it did gave him a chance to get back on the main subject.
''And now the banished needs to pay for the extra troubles they brought you, Sobek,'' he began. ''I need your clan to be my eyes and ears. The banished won't suspect your kind to be rattached to me. If you see any rats alongside my borders, all you need is to kill them.''
A grin appeared on the Vulture's face.
''And what about a final strike?''
The Vampyrum became skeptical: ''… What are you talking about?''
More Vultures approached the scene, soon encircling the small king. The bird's leader let out a low, raspy chuckle.
''We could get the banished out of your way. But all we need is for you to offer us something we have long wished for...''
''And what is it?'' asked Jarod, frowning.
''Human fire!''
The bat stayed silent, undecided about if Sobek was out of his mind. In fact, he didn't know what to answer, knowing he could never approach any human at all...
''… I don't understand,'' he finally spoke out.
The Vulture's feathers poofed up, somehow annoyed by the other's ignorance.
''The disks, Jarod, the shiny killers! Human machines often drop some bats and birds over our land so they can fly to their doom. When they hit ground, their bodies explode into large flames, only because of a small object attached to them.''
He got nearer, looking at the king with his only good eye.
''We need one,'' he continued. ''We could drop it on the banished and kill them all in one shot.''
''How could I even get one of those?'' questionned Jarod, starting to get angry.
Sobek got right up, eyeing the other with indifference.
''That is not my problem. … Do as I ask, Vampyrum, and you will get our help.''
He deployed his wings, next followed by the Vultures around.
''I look forward to our … partnership,'' the bird added with faint amusement, finally taking flight.
Jarod didn't move, the large ones floating around him in circles for some time before going towards the sky, all following their leader.
The Vampyrum could finally breathe, seeing all of them fly away. He knew things would have taken an unexpected turn, but not as huge as this one! He grumbled, opening his wings in turn and going towards where he left his guards.
He found both bats with terrified looks, instantly knowing something was wrong. Snarling, Jarod grabbed the first guard next to him, the male, and didn't hesitate to look menacing:
''I know those looks. I swear to Zotz, if you both spyed-''
''Your majesty, please,'' cut the female in a terrified tone. ''We only saw you surrounded by the Vultures, we swear! We didn't have the chance to hear anything as one of them came to us and watched us.''
Jarod turned to her. ''What?''
''They knew we were here. If we had tried to get away, they would have killed us, even you!''
The king released the male guard. He knew the Vultures were only taking precautions, but he couldn't help feeling uneasy about it. His fur slightly rose as he smelled the air, suspecting some kind of trap from the birds. A single glance at the guards was enough to get them standing straight, awaiting orders.
Jarod frowned once more, hushing his voice down as he menaced them:
''You will both keep your mouths shut about what happened here. If I do hear any other Vampyrum mentioning the Vultures, I will find you two and snap your necks. Did I make myself clear?''
The guards nodded, some fear still in their eyes. It was enough for the king as he next gestured them to follow him, although asking for them to be vigilant about any sound or unusual sight.
He hoped he did the right choice by coming to the Vultures...
Hunting alone in the jungle never felt that much … unpleasing. Most of the time, Stella was used to Axel's company whenever she would fly away from the pyramid, but ever since Flora's death, she heard no news.
She did wanted to give him time and space to mourn, but at the same time she wanted to be there for him. If only there would be a way to get in contact with him or simply get into the banished's lair without Hell noticing...
The Silverwing suddenly heard branches and leaves moving, along with some hoots. … An owl? Stella frowned, she never saw one around before.
Moving silently, she flew towards the sound, not even needing her echolocation in the bright light of day. She did stop at a branch, moving her ears to different directions, wanting to catch the source again.
Something moved on her left, the young female instantly getting on her guards and slowly walking to it. She moved some leaves carefully, wanting to get a view, and her eyes grew bigger.
Stella spotted a young Vampyrum, being none other than Axel. He seemed locked on a target, his body tense and ready to deploy at any moment. The female didn't care, getting out of her hiding spot.
''Axel,'' she began.
The cannibal jumped, a small yelp escaping him. His eyes instantly went towards her, his breathing stopping only for a split second.
''… Stella?'' he breathed out.
''Oh thanks Nocturna, I can finally see you again!'' continued the Silverwing, embracing him and burrowing her face into the crook of his neck.
Axel didn't move, unsure about what to do. He did felt awkward, not even hugging the other back.
Stella's ears dropped, slightly frowning as she looked up to him.
''… What's wrong?'' she asked quietly.
The young Vampyrum became severe, pushing her away.
'' 'What's wrong'?! Stella, are you kidding me? You brought my mom to death!'' he snarled.
''No, please, Axel, don't say that,'' pleaded Stella, her voice shaking as she shook her head slowly.
''Because of you, my dad hates my guts more than ever and now my whole plan is ruined. My mom died because you didn't stop her. You knew she could get killed if she ever approached the pyramid!''
''No, it's only because I believed in her!'' finally growled back Stella, showing her small fangs. ''She believed in me, she believed in Goth, she believed in every one of us. But most of all, she believed in her clan, the banished.''
Axel didn't say anything, his eyes still locked on the female.
''She didn't have the strength to face Jarod, that is true,'' continued the Silverwing. ''But she believed you would.''
No one could add a word when the sound of rustling branches and leaves was heard again, both bats' ears jerking up in interest. They stopped their conversation, moving towards the source silently and in unison.
They got to the edge of the large branch they were on, peeking over into the void, right under them. And the next sight they got was the one of a snowy Owl, all tangled up in vines. It was breathing heavily, it's teal eyes scanning the surroundings franctically. Stella soon noticed a strange metal disk on the bird's stomach, dangerously moving and being held up by some small threads.
''It's an Owl from where I'm from,'' she whispered to Axel. ''I wonder what it's doing here?''
She didn't wait for him to talk, already gliding towards the bird. She heard the Vampyrum call her name in hushed tones, wanting for her to wait, but the Silverwing didn't care.
Stella landed before the Owl, the bird rapidly getting its eyes on her. It first jumped in surprise, but calmed down when it noticed the bat's size and specie.
''… A Silverwing?'' began to say the Owl in a feminine voice. ''Were you with the others? How did you survive? Get me out of here!''
She began to move, jerking her wings only to try to get out of her natural prison. Stella tried to reassure her.
''Please, don't move! I'll get you out of there.''
The small bat looked up to Axel, asking for his help in silence. She heard the young male sigh, finally coming down in turn. The snowy Owl panicked once again, seeing the size of the Vampyrum. The cannibal jumped to her, already snapping and tearing away the vines holding the bird.
When she was finally free, she stood her ground, her eyes going back and forth between the Vampyrum and the Silverwing. She backed up a bit when she saw the small female approach her.
''How did you get here?'' questionned Stella.
The Owl's eyes grew bigger.
''What, you mean you weren't with the rest of us back in that human machine?''
''I don't even know what you're talking about. I'm just trying to understand what's happening, just like you probably. … I'm Stella, by the way.''
''Stella … Stella Silverwing? I heard about you,'' added the bird, squinting her eyes.
The small bat looked unsure in turn, already on her guards. Axel got closer to her, already placing himself in front and ready for any eventualities.
''H-how did you hear about me?'' asked Stella in a small voice.
She expected the worst scenario...
But not that one:
''My father got news of a rebel bat from one of the Silverwing clans. Stella Silverwing, the law-breaker, the one who saw the sun and killed Owls! General Brutus got a hold of her at some point, but she was able to escape with the help of a monster.''
''Goth is not a monster and we escaped because Brutus wanted to kill us without letting us talk!'' finally blurt out Stella, knowing she had been discovered. ''You can't do anything to me here, Owl, this is not your land.''
''Princess Athena,'' huffed the bird, her feathers poofing.
''… Pardon?''
''You will call me Princess Athena,'' repeated the other. ''I am King Boreal's daughter, after all. I deserve respect.''
Stella's ears lowered, getting back behind Axel. She was in deep guano, how could she have talked this way to the king's daughter?
''Do you want me to eat her?'' asked Axel, looking at Stella from the corner of his eyes. ''If she gets back north, she could easily tell where you are...''
The Owl seemed concerned, unsure about what the male was talking about. The Silverwing jolted back to life, repeating ''no'' as she walked towards the bird, as if trying to protect her.
''No one will harm anyone,'' she finally explained. ''I need to know how she got here!''
It was obvious that Stella was trying to think of a plan, looking unsure for some seconds. She finally turned back to the bird:
''You said you got here because of human machines?''
''Yes, they got those metal disks on us, dropping us in this foreign land. Many died in explosions when hitting the ground.'' Athena sighed, adding: ''… I don't even understand how it all happened. They all looked like something was hypnotizing them, but it didn't work for me. And now I'm stuck with this damned bomb dangling on my stomach.''
Even though she didn't say it, it was obvious that Athena was scared, her feathers slightly poofing up.
Stella already had an idea in mind.
''… If I told you that there are other northern bats here and that I'm trying to find a way for them to get back home, would you be willing to trust me?''
The snowy Owl frowned: ''Why would I trust a bat? A law-breaker even?''
''Because she just saved your life,'' added Axel, folding his wings, the same look as hers on his face. ''The bats are under the protection of my colony right now, Stella is saying the truth. The jungle is harsh, you will be protected with us.''
''And we will get that disk away from you,'' finished Stella
The bird didn't say a word, only sighing in defeat as she exposed her body better for the bats to get to work.
Both holding the object when it was finally off, Axel and Stella looked at eachothers, the Vampyrum's ears finally lowering a little.
''… Look, I'm sorry,'' he began calmly. ''I shouldn't have blamed you. My mom probably knew what she was doing...''
''Don't worry about it,'' cut Stella with a small smile. ''It's okay to be angry and sad. … I just want you to know that I'll be there for you.''
Athena hushed the bat with a dry cough, making the others look at her.
''That's a charming conversation you're having there, bats, but now I think we should move on, don't you think?''
''Hang on, princess,'' answered the male with annoyance. ''Now we just have to figure what we need to do with that disk.''
He looked back at Stella, serious this time: ''I should bring it to the banished's lair.''
''And why?'' questionned the Silverwing with a puzzled look. ''Won't your father see this thing as another opportunity for his foolish plans? … This bomb is dangerous, Axel, we need to hide it.''
''Where exactly? We can't just leave it here, laying on the ground or hidden in a tree!''
A small grin appeared on the female's face: ''Why, at the pyramid of course.''
''What?!'' snarled Axel. ''Stella, are you crazy? What if Jarod finds it?''
''He won't. The best way to hide something from your enemy is to put it right under his nose, somewhere he would never expect it. And I don't think he'd know about these objects.''
''Still, that's a huge risk you're taking there...''
Oh she knew that. Stella wasn't stupid. She did fear her own plan, but she also knew that she couldn't let that powerful tool in the hands of any Vampyrum clan. The only bat she could trust was herself.
''I'm willing to take the risk,'' she added. ''And I want you to be sure that if anything goes wrong, you will be the first one I will go to and that I'm willing to take full responsability of any action that could occur.''
''You bats are crazy,'' brought Athena. ''I would just drop it into the nearest river if I were you.''
Stella sighed, disregarding that comment. She finally took the bomb all for herself, looking at Axel with pleading eyes.
''… I know what I'm doing, Axel. Please, believe me. … Now I want you to keep the princess safe. I need her alive.''
She turned back to the snowy Owl, bowing her head a little: ''Thank you for trusting me, princess Athena. I will get you back to your father.''
''You better be,'' frowned the bird.
That metal disk was heavier than she first thought, stopping several times only to take a break.
She couldn't take that thing alone to the pyramid, everyone would spot her for sure.
She had no other choice.
Leaving the bomb hidden in dense foliage, she rushed to the pyramid, instantly going to the Hole.
Stella didn't give herself time to breathe that she was already blurting out Goth's name when she got to the entrance. She heard and saw the prince jump and yelp, his heart finally beating again when he spotted the source of his fear. Vera was next to him, laughing, which brought a frown upon Goth's face.
''Madre de dios, Stella! Can't you see I'm busy!'' he lightly snarled.
The Silverwing's eyes went back and forth between the two Vampyrums, her ears lowering.
''Oh...,'' she frowned in turn, a sour look on her face.
But that didn't stop her to get into the Hole and continue her line of thought.
''Goth, I need you to come, it's really important.''
''What don't you understand in 'I'm busy'? I'm having an important discussion with Vera here.''
''And what don't YOU undestand in 'it's really important'?'' growled the Silverwing back. ''I need your help and it's not that female that's going to get in my way.''
Vera looked surprised and amused: ''… My, my, she's just like you.''
''Oh for Zotz's sake,'' grumbled Goth. ''… What is it about then?''
''I can't tell, especially not in front of her,'' answered Stella.
The prince's patience was getting to its limits.
''You're not helping,'' he hissed with a fake smile, his eyes growing big.
He stopped when Vera put a hand on his shoulder, a soft smile on her face.
''Goth, just go. I know she probably doesn't trust me yet and that's understandable. … I have other business to attend anyway. I'll see you another time.''
The prince huffed, finally conceeding.
''Alright, alright. You win this time, little pest,'' he added, walking past Stella, ruffling her hair and then flying outside, the Silverwing following him.
He froze when he saw the metal disk, Stella next announcing him that it was a bomb.
Images from his vision came to him, seeing once again the sun eclipse, the battle going around the pyramid and finally the explosion.
… Was that object the cause?
''Where did you find it?'' he questioned, holding the Silverwing's shoulders firmly, obligating her to look at him.
''Axel and I found that bird, she got it from the humans. I was thinking about hiding it at the pyramid-''
''No, no, no, never,'' cut the Vampyrum, releasing her and rapidly hiding the object back into the leaves.
He obviously seemed tense, which did not escape the young one's eyes.
''We have to destroy it, not hide it,'' continued the giant. ''That thing … it will provoke chaos, I just know it!''
''Woah there, calm down. We can't just make it explode like that! It could provoke huge damages around.''
''And you want to hide it inside the pyramid?'' snarled Goth, baring his fangs. ''Think about it, Stella, you'd prefer to destroy our home rather than some random part of the jungle?''
Stella was terrified, her ears dropped down, flattened against her head.
''I just...- I just thought that-,''
''That's right, you only thought. You thought for yourself and not about everyone else.''
''No, that's not what I meant,'' added the female, shaken by the other's outburst. ''I thought that hiding it with you would be the best choice. I don't want to hurt anyone! I could have just give it to the banished but it didn't feel safe for me.''
Goth was boiling with rage. He had no words, simply getting back to the Silverwing and ordering her harshly to close her eyes. Stella did so with fear, next invaded with images of the pyramid under a strange sun, blocked by some black mass. The sky was filled with bats and birds, battling, until it all changed to a large explosion starting at the top of the building, blinding the scenery in a bright light.
And it was in some mere seconds that Stella spotted another bat, a Silverwing female.
She couldn't observe it longer as Goth stopped echoing that vision to her, now going towards the bomb.
''… Goth, what was that?'' finally asked Stella in a small voice.
''I got that vision not so long ago. Someone brought it to me, warning me about that event. That bat told me that I had to trust Vera and that I had the power to change the course of events. … If I don't intervene, this will happen.''
''Who was that bat I saw at the end?''
The Vampyrum didn't even look at her, growling a bit as he simply answered: ''Your mother.''
Stella was already at his side, her eyes wide as she tried to get his attention on her, her hands on his arm.
''How?'' she said in panick. ''How is that possible?''
''That is not the question now,'' answered Goth dryly. ''We need to figure what to do with that disk.''
''But Goth! You saw my mother! Why did you see her and not me? Why did she come to you? Why can't I see her? ANSWER ME!''
''Because Zotz gave me the opportunity to speak with the deads and she appeared to me,'' replied the other, growling and showing once again his fangs. ''I did not ask to see her. She came to me, she showed me that horrible vision and that was all. Here, end of the story, now stop bothering me.''
Tears of rage went down Stella's cheeks. She slowly backed away, shaking her head. Why did he start being so harsh to her?
In her sudden mood, she slapped his arm, also trying to push him away, but with no result. Seeing that she wasn't strong enough, she simply cried out: ''I HATE YOU!'' before flying away, heading straight to the pyramid.
Goth was still frowning, watching her go, but when she was finally a few wingsbeats away from him, he sighed, his frame and shoulders falling.
He looked back at the metal disk, wondering what he truly had to do...
The sunset didn't give out as many colors as usual this time, the sky already turning grey and announcing incoming rain. Vera found herself back into the royal chamber, out of habitude now perhaps.
She couldn't say that she wasn't afraid of Jarod anymore, that was not the truth, but she did felt rather at ease with him now.
The king was, once again, near the stone table, his mind elsewhere as he kept scrubbing one symbol with his claw mindlessly. The spy walked to him, softly leaving a hand to his arm and looking up to him as she caressed his fur. He finally moved his eyes to her, spotting her small smile.
''Something's troubling you?'' she asked.
Jarod grumbled under his breath, moving a hand to hers.
''… I feel like I've done something really stupid today,'' he answered, then taking a small pause before adding: ''And also there's you. I don't know what to do.''
''What do you mean?''
''Vera, you failed me once again.,'' he said, turning to her. ''… I don't see the point of keeping you for this mission I gave you. You're not giving me the results I want and need.''
''I'm sorry, I-''
''No more excuses,'' cut Jarod, not even rising his tone, still calm. ''That is why I now asked help from the Vultures.''
The female's eyes grew big: ''… Wait, why?''
''The banished got help from the rats. I don't know if they still do, but I will not risk my chances. … The Vultures won't be suspected to be linked with us when they will spy in the jungle. They will be able to get their eyes on key points my spies can't get to.''
''Aren't you realizing what you're doing?'' lightly snarled Vera, still in shock. ''You could just kill us all and that would be the same. We can't trust the Vultures, they could turn against you!''
''If they disobey me I will at least be able to snap their necks without any remorse,'' barked back the king, showing his fangs and tightening his grip. ''I know what I'm doing, Vera, I'm not stupid!''
The female now seemed worried, shaking herself away from Jarod. She was already backing off, which only brought Jarod towards her once again, his features suddenly showing incomprehension.
''Vera, stay,'' he said.
''No, I-''
''I order you to stay,'' he announced, his expression now serious.
The spy lightly frowned.
''Why? You don't need me anymore, my king. I am of no more use to you...''
His grip tightened.
''Yes you are and you'll always be. … My queen.''
He brought her near him with force, their gazes locking as the female was now close to the giant. The spy gulped, obviously nervous.
''… Jarod, please, that one time meant nothing...''
''Stop lying,'' he hissed. ''I could feel your desire as I hope you could feel mine.'' He was now stroking her cheek tenderly. ''...Vera, I have never felt like this with any other female, not even with Lluvia. It's like you put a spell on me; I can't help but keep thinking about you day and night.''
Vera pushed herself away a bit, looking away with confusion.
''… I can't,'' she whispered.
The king was before her once again, lifting her head with both hands: ''I know you hate me, even if you never spoke that thought out loud; everybody thinks the same, I know it.''
His tone was surprisingly sincere, a hurtful look in his eyes.
''I am a monster, my hands soaked with blood from many I both loved and despised,'' he continued. ''But I also was once a lover and I know that part of me can come back with your help. … Whenever you are around, all the voices in my head shuts down. You bring me peace, Vera, something I longed for a very long time.''
The female couldn't stop frowning, unsure of how to interpret everything he was telling her. A side of her wanted to believe such words, but another one kept calling him a monster, a murderer!
The giant was now slowly taking in her scent, closing his eyes as he kept caressing her neck and whole frame.
''Jarod, please, I can't do this...''
The king ignored her, lightly kissing the side of her face and her neck, his slow breathing sending chills down Vera's spine.
As he continued, the spy's mind only kept turning around, many emotions overflowing her. She first felt distress, then fear and finally sadness. She couldn't retain her tears, loud sobs escaping her mouth without her consent.
Jarod stopped, blocking his eyes on the female's face. Feeling her pain, he tenderly kissed her cheeks, where her tears were. Vera couldn't stay silent anymore:
''For so long I've been keeping it inside,'' she began with a broken voice. ''I can't anymore, I simply can't!''
''...What is it?''
She grasped some of his fur, looking into the giant's eyes with concern.
''I made a promise to never speak about it, but now I need to confess. Kill me if you want right after, I don't care. … But if you really love me as much as you say, you will not hurt me.''
''Speak, my queen,'' answered Jarod in a soft voice.
Vera couldn't believe she was actually doing this...
''For as long as I remember, I've always lived with the idea that one day I'd avenge those who were once dear to me. Many wanted to know where I'm from and now I will tell you; I am from the southern jungles, from the same colony Lluvia was once from. When king Hades sent troops to kill all of us, some were able to escape, including my parents. … They gave birth to me after that even and I have spent three years with them, always being told that your kingdom was the worst, ruled by a demon. Then your troops killed them! They killed everything I held dearly to my heart. The last thing I remember from my family is promising them I would have our vengeance; I would kill you. … I really wanted to, oh for so long. When I first got here, I already planned it all, but Lluvia stopped me and instantly knew where I was from. She saved me... And made me realize that I needed to study you first in order to kill you more easily.''
Jarod was still looking at her with intensity.
''I waited, and waited, and waited,'' she continued. ''And now I am weak. Yes, I do not love you, but I respect you. You are my king, my leader. … I will never be your queen.''
The silence that was now between the two was defeaning, until the king began a dark and low chuckle, attracting the female in his wings.
''… I have tried to read in your mind so many times,'' he began with a hushed voice. ''Your mental barriers were so powerful, I now understand why. You are fierce and deadly; a poison both sweet and dangerous. I admire your strength, Vera...''
''You're not angered?''
''A lot. But that only deepens my affection for you.''
Jarod nuzzled her, smiling as a soft growling sound was rising in his throat. Vera hesitated, but slowly started kissing his cheek and getting to his mouth. He was once again tender and passionate, which always surprised the female.
They had backed to the stone table, Vera's back against it. She couldn't retain her moans this time as the giant kept kissing every parts of her body, his touch accentuating each sensations.
''I want you forever and ever,'' he cooed, going over her neck. ''I want this night to last forever, this dream to continue until the end of times...''
His body brushed against hers, bitting her bottom lip playfully and lovingly. The spy grabbed his mane, asking for more, gluing her frame to his with desire. She wanted him to fully appreciate every seconds, knowing it was their last time together...
He envelopped her in his wings, his breath and movements febrile, suddenly softer than usual, as if scared to break her or anything.
''… Never leave me,'' he whispered.
Vera didn't answer, nuzzling his neck tenderly.
It didn't take them long to start making love, not rushing any movements. They were slow and yet passionate, Vera's moans shyly rising in the room.
''...You will never escape me,'' said Jarod in a sensual tone. ''You are mine, Vera, you will always be...''
He was now smelling her again, clearly noticing her pheromones. He wanted to caress her forever, take care of her and protect her.
Vera orgasmed after some time, her body trembling against the king's. She began to cry at the same time, her emotions intense and overflowing her. Jarod was concerned after a while, his mind suddenly pulling him back to reality after he also came.
When he finally felt everything going down, his attention got back to the other still crying, shaking from everything she had contained inside. The male began to pet her head, trying to hush her and telling her that everything was alright.
She didn't know why she was crying. Maybe because it felt so good? But also because she felt, for an instant, the same thing as the king. Something deep and powerful she never expected to feel … and it sickened her.
Jarod sat to the ground, his back against the wall. He kept Vera in his lap, her whole frame resting against his. … He loved her so much, he didn't want to let her go.
''I'm sorry,'' let out the female between two sobs. ''I shouldn't have stayed, I made it worse.''
''Don't say such things, mi amor,'' hushed the giant. ''We both needed this...''
''I don't want to love you!'' replied Vera, her tone rising with slight frustration, hitting her fist against his chest. ''I can't... You killed them all … you're killing me.''
All her tension fell again, her body going limp. She cried once more, ashamed from her stupid outburst. ''You're killing me...'' she repeated.
The king slowly kissed the top of her head, envelopping her in his wings. He felt the same emotions as she was killing him too.
''Whatever you decide, Vera,'' he began in a whisper, ''know that I will never hurt you. You are my queen, forever... I'm going to love you for all my life. You don't have to love me back, but I'm going to give you my heart.''
The female's body sticked closer to the king, embracing him as she was shivering a little. She didn't dare to add a word, not wanting to make things worse for her. She prefered to nuzzle his neck, taking in his scent.
It was only a dream. A bad dream? She didn't know. … She didn't want to know.
When morning came, both bats were still in eachothers' arms, Jarod being the first one to wake up with the sound of rain. His gaze automatically landed on Vera who was still sleeping peacefully. He couldn't help but show a faint smile, pleased by such a view. He dared to tighten his embrace a bit, slowly kissing the top of her head.
He wished she wouldn't push him away, finally accept him and stay by his side...
The spy began to wake up, soon lifting her sleepy gaze on the male. They looked at eachothers without saying any words, their emotions going through their eyes instead.
Jarod was pleading while Vera was evasive.
She knew she couldn't stay. She couldn't love him.
Her ears lowered, expressing her apology. She dared to leave a light kiss on his lips before leaving his wings, promptly going to the exit and flying away.
The king was frozen.
At first he wasn't able to realize it, but she clearly ran away, rejecting him.
His whole body began to tense up, his fur bristling. He wanted to roar, kill someone! He was now up, near the stone table, remembering their night.
Jarod's fist landed hard against the stone, breathing heavily. A moan of sadness and anger escaped him as he held his head low. He surprised himself when small tears fell on the table, rapidly straigthening his stance and drying away those aweful trails. He couldn't stop frowning, wondering why he was suddenly becoming so weak...
He opened his heart for her. He loved her... And now she was rejecting him...
Jarod turned heels, his mind already trying to focus on something else. He got into a small room that was attached to the royal chamber: Voxzaco's ingredients stash. He went on his way, moving some small vines away as he entered another place, even smaller this time, none other than the priest's meditation room. The giant could smell some rotten ingredients and fragrances of weird herbs floating around, which would easily give him access to what he was about to do.
Closing his eyes, calming his emotions, Jarod slowly inhaled and exhaled for some time, soon a low meditative growl rising in his throat. This was different than listening to the stars, his attention rather seeking the roots of the earth, its grumbling echoes that stretched right to the dark pits of hell. He felt his mind turn, his focus pushing the barriers of this mortal world, soon rushing into the world of an eternal night filled with false stars.
The Vampyrum flew for some time in that silent world, feeling the cold wind of death caressing his wings and fur. He loved coming in here, the only place he ever felt comfort in ever since he discovered it from his first encounter with the dark lord, back in his childhood. A grin crept on his face, his eyes closing once again.
His haven, his sanctuary. He didn't fear death, but still wasn't ready to rejoin it... At least, not yet.
''Champion.''
That voice, strong and old, Jarod knew it too well. His smile disappeared, his senses leading him to a dark structure, looking just like a pyramid but black in color. Many shadows flew away when he approached it, giving Jarod the chance to land on top and bow when a large figure got before him.
He could already feel red eyes pierce his soul, the hot breath of the god crawling down his fur.
''My lord,'' greeted Jarod in a serene voice, not even lifting his eyes.
''Champion, what are you doing in my domain when I didn't even ask for your presence?''
The king got back on his feet, his eyes still down.
''… I need your guidance, my lord. I couldn't wait for your call, I had to seek your wisdom.''
''If it's about the Vultures, you did a very foolish move.''
Jarod's ears lowered a little: ''How do you know?''
''I can see and hear many things, Jarod, I thought you knew that very well,'' answered Zotz, his eyes glowing.
The bat bowed once again, only a little: ''Of course, my lord. Please forgive me. … But I am not here solely for the Vultures. … I'm having difficulties gathering the needed sacrifices for your liberation. I've got some rodents and birds that were around my pyramid, but the word got around and most are moving away or simply hiding. I'm trying to get the banished and the remaining northerners, but without any success so far.''
''Then use your people. Take their hearts.''
Jarod froze: ''… My lord, I can't-''
''You are all my servants, champion. Wether you live or not, you all belong to me as both in the living and dead worlds. When you will accomplish the sacrifices, my reign will extend on these two worlds so I have no care if your clan is alive or not.''
''I can't do that to my people!'' snarled Jarod.
The god's stature grew, looking more menacing.
''It is an extreme mesure for an extreme situation! If I can't suceed in my battle against Nocturna, you will have no choice! Do this and I will grant you the title of general in my new army. You will be praised by all, Jarod, isn't that your dream?''
The Vampyrum was speechless, somehow angry that the god knew his weaknesses too well. He did craved power for most of his life, but now this was taking a ridiculous turn...
He did take the proposition only to twist it around in his favor:
''If I do become a general, then you must promise me to rank Vera Vampyrum the same as me. She and I will rule together and together we will start a new generation that will be entirely devoted to you.''
''I see no point in this demand since all will be devoted to me, but I will accept.''
The god got closer, his eyes menacing the Vampyrum king: ''But know this, Jarod, I will not tolerate your emotions taking the best of you. That female is already causing troubles in your soul, I fear she might even bring you problems in our plans. … Keep your attention to the eclipse.''
''Yes, my lord...''
Jarod was boiling inside, but tried to keep a calm expression. He seriously had no ideas of what to do anymore and it was driving him mad. He couldn't just sacrifice his whole colony and also completely erase the feelings he had for Vera. She was his soul mate, he knew that...
He felt his mind drift away, the land of the dead soon fading before his eyes. It didn't take time for him to wake up back into the meditation room, now frowning from this encounter.
The plan with the Vultures was foolish? Nonsense, he would still follow it, he knew it was the right choice. … He hoped, at least.